Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery can
repair the clouding over the lens of the eye that affects many
people as they age.
What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
During cataract surgery, the affected lens is removed and
replaced by a plastic, clear lens. There are different surgical
techniques used to remove the lens. One method of cataract
surgery is called phacoemulsification (FAY-co-ee-mul-sih-fih-CAY-shun).
Under local anesthesia, a surgeon uses high-frequency sound
waves or
ultrasound to break the lens into small pieces. The pieces
are removed by suction through a small incision in the eye.
After the clouded lens - or cataract -- is removed, it may be
replaced with a new, manmade lens called an intraocular lens.
This procedure is called "intraocular lens implantation."
The manmade lens is selected to fit your eye and to help
restore normal vision. Even if your natural lens is replaced
with an intraocular lens, you probably will need a new eyeglass
prescription.
Cataract surgery is usually done in a doctor's office, so you
don't have to stay in the hospital. Doctors usually won't remove
cataracts in both eyes at the same time. You will be
scheduled for separate surgeries.
Is Cataract Surgery Safe?
Cataract surgery is one of the most common operations
performed in the U. S. and nearly 98% of all cataract surgeries
are completed each year without serious complications. Though
this type of surgery is very safe, you should discuss the risks
with your ophthalmologist.
What Can I Expect After Cataract Surgery?
After cataract surgery, it is normal to feel itching and some
mild discomfort. To combat this, your doctor may recommend that
you take a pain reliever such as Tylenol. You may also have
temporary fluid discharge from your eye and be sensitive to
light for a short time following cataract surgery.
For a few days after cataract surgery, you will need to take
medication in the form of eye drops to aid healing, prevent
infection, and control the pressure inside your eye. Your
surgeon may want you to avoid very strenuous activities for a
short period after surgery, but most normal activities need not
be restricted following cataract surgery.
How Soon Will My Vision Improve After Cataract Surgery?
Vision is usually improved the day after cataract surgery.
Maximum improvement is usually achieved when new glasses are
prescribed, about a month after cataract surgery.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Cataract Surgery?
In a minority of patients, a clouding occurs on the lens
capsule months or years after cataract surgery. In this case, an
office procedure using a laser can open a small hole to restore
normal vision. Lens implants are permanent and ordinarily do not
need to be replaced. They are good for the life of the patient.
Will Insurance Cover the Cost of Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is covered by Medicare, insurance and HMOs.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute.
Edited by
Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, WebMD, October 2004.
Last Editorial Review: 6/21/2005
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